Paul Pogba to leave Manchester United for free this summer
What's the story
French mid-fielder Paul Pogba will leave Premier League club Manchester United on a free transfer. Pogba will leave United when his contract expires at the end of this month. United confirmed the news on Wednesday. The 29-year-old leaves United for free for the second time in his career. He had re-joined United for a then-world record fee of £89m from Juventus in 2016.
Statement
United bid farewell to Pogba
"It was a low-key end to a United career that brought so many individual high moments," United issued a statement. "So many beautiful goals, assists and pieces of skill. For a boy that joined the Academy at 16 to make over 200 United appearances and lift the Youth Cup, along with two major pieces of silverware, is something that should be applauded and celebrated."
Pogba
Pogba joined United in 2016
Pogba made just seven appearances for United in 2011-12 before being allowed to leave for free. He joined Italian giants Juventus and enjoyed his time there. Across four seasons, the talented mid-fielder made 178 appearances, scoring 34 times. However, he joined United back in 2016 for a record sum. He had an inconsistent period during the six-year stay.
Numbers
Pogba's time at United
In these six seasons, he made 226 appearances for United, scoring 39 times. He won the Europa League and the Carabao Cup. He also reached the final of the Europa League last season. Pogba's best season at United was 2018-19. He scored 16 goals in 47 matches. The 2019-20 and 2021-22 seasons were frustrating. Injuries saw him make just 22 and 27 appearances respectively.
Transfer
The mistake made by United
United did offer Pogba a contract renewal offer but the player didn't extend the same. The offer was lying since last summer. On several occasions there were talks of Pogba leaving the club and United didn't seize the opportunity, rather enforcing the option of a further year. This saw the side lose him for free once again.
Analysis
Paul Pogba didn't get going at United
There was a lot riding on Pogba since he returned to the club. However, the Frenchman never quite put in the performance expected out of him. He was far too inconsistent and at several games, he went absent. Also, injuries played a role in stalling his progress. Pogba often complained regarding his position on the pitch as well.
What next?
Pogba likely to join Juventus
As per Sky Sports, Pogba's representatives have held positive talks with Juventus. There is a feeling he could end up in Turin as Pogba too loved being there. There are rumors of Paris Saint-Germain being linked with a move as well. Recently, there were reports of Pogba deciding against a move to Manchester City. Pogba's next move will be based on a football decision.